Collins and Carruthers investigated over Cheltenham incident

Shrewsbury Town have confirmed they are investigating Northampton Town loanee James Collins after images circulated appearing to show him and MK Dons midfielder Samir Carruthers urinating in a glass.

The two footballers were in a VIP box at Cheltenham Racecourse yesterday and were pictured relieving themselves in public, with Collins reportedly throwing his cup over a balcony.

The racecourse has confirmed the group who made the booking on behalf of the footballers have now had their tickets for the horse racing festival cancelled.

An MK Dons statement said: “The Club is aware of pictures circulating in the national media of one of its players at the Cheltenham Festival.

“The Club has commenced an internal investigation into the matter.”

Shrewsbury Town has commented on Collins saying: “Shrewsbury Town Football Club have been made aware of an alleged incident involving player James Collins, currently on loan at Northampton Town, at Cheltenham Racecourse.

“Shrewsbury Town will fully investigate the alleged incident and no further comment will be made until the investigation processed has been finalised.”

Bristol City have also released a statement as defender Luke Ayling was pictured with Collins and Carruthers, although he is not shown to be involved in the incident.

It read: “We are aware of the disappointing images from the Cheltenham Festival that have been printed in various national newspapers this morning.

We will be speaking to the players concerned and will take appropriate action where necessary.”